Simple Doritos Taco Salad

If you’re craving a crunchy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that comes together in no time, this Simple Doritos Taco Salad is exactly what you need. Combining the bold zest of seasoned ground beef with the irresistible crunch of Doritos chips, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch dressing, this salad is a fiesta of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck, or anytime you want a meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to your liking without compromising on taste.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Simple Doritos Taco Salad stands out because it balances hearty protein, crisp vegetables, and crunchy chips in a way that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds. The combination of seasoned ground beef and crumbled turkey bacon adds a savory depth, while the fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and bell peppers keep it bright and refreshing. The Doritos chips add a fun twist, giving each bite a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that you just can’t get with regular tortilla chips. Drizzled with creamy ranch dressing and topped with green onions, this salad brings together classic taco flavors with a playful, modern spin.

If you enjoy dishes that mix fresh and fried elements, you might also love the vibrant flavors of Mexican Salsa Verde—perfect for adding a zesty kick to your meals.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup chopped lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups Doritos chips
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

How To Make Simple Doritos Taco Salad

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed, then stir in the taco seasoning along with the recommended amount of water (usually about 2/3 cup). Simmer until the seasoning thickens and coats the beef evenly, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Bacon

While the beef cooks, cook the turkey bacon in a separate pan or in the oven until crisp. Once done, let it cool slightly, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Chop and Prep Veggies

Wash and chop the lettuce, dice the tomatoes and bell peppers, and slice the green onions. Keep these fresh and ready to toss in the salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl or individual bowls, layer the lettuce, seasoned beef, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled turkey bacon. Just before serving, top with the Doritos chips for maximum crunch.

Step 5: Add Dressing and Garnish

Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Toss gently if you like everything mixed or leave it layered for a pretty presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the chips at their crispiest.

This recipe is ideal for busy days when you want a quick, flavorful meal. If you love the idea of combining fresh veggies with bold meat dishes, try pairing this salad with a side of Mexican Picadillo to add even more excitement to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the ground beef, which can make it dry and tough.
• Adding the Doritos chips too early, causing them to become soggy.
• Using too much ranch dressing—start with less and add more if needed.
• Skipping the step to drain excess fat from the beef, which can make the salad greasy.
• Not prepping vegetables in uniform sizes, which affects texture balance.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the turkey bacon for regular bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative depending on your preference.
• Try different flavored Doritos like Cool Ranch or Spicy Nacho for extra variety.
• Add black beans or corn for additional fiber and texture.
• Use a homemade taco seasoning blend for a fresher, less processed flavor.
• Replace ranch dressing with a creamy avocado cilantro dressing for a vibrant twist.
• Mix in some sliced jalapeños if you like your salad with a spicy kick.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, separate the salad components before storing. Keep the seasoned beef, vegetables, and dressing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the Doritos chips separately in a sealed bag or container to maintain their crunch. When ready to eat, simply assemble the salad again by combining fresh chips with the chilled ingredients.

Avoid mixing the chips with the salad ahead of time to prevent sogginess. Reheat the beef gently in a microwave or skillet before serving if you prefer it warm.

FAQ

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef and turkey bacon with plant-based alternatives like seasoned lentils, crumbled tofu, or meatless bacon for a delicious vegetarian version of this Simple Doritos Taco Salad.

What type of Doritos works best?

Classic Nacho Cheese Doritos are a crowd favorite because their bold flavor complements the savory beef and fresh veggies perfectly. However, you can experiment with flavors like Cool Ranch or Spicy Nacho for a fun twist.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but with some precautions. Keep the Doritos and dressing separate until serving to maintain the crunch and freshness. Store the beef and veggies in airtight containers and assemble the salad when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use a different dressing?

Definitely! While ranch dressing pairs beautifully with the flavors in this salad, you can substitute it with sour cream, a cilantro lime dressing, or even a simple squeeze of fresh lime juice and a drizzle of olive oil for a lighter option.

Conclusion

This Simple Doritos Taco Salad is a perfect blend of savory, crunchy, and fresh elements that come together effortlessly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights or casual gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or customize with your favorite add-ins, this salad promises a satisfying and delicious meal every time. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures that make this dish a standout in any recipe rotation!

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